Rita Charles, office/education program associate, to retire

Rita Charles, Office/Education Program Associate for the Department of Dental Hygiene, is retiring on July 15. 

"My philosophy has been that a person lives and evolves through many lives in their lifetime. As I prepare for my 9th or 10th new life, I want everyone to know I have enjoyed my 26+ years working with the faculty, staff and students at the College of Dentistry very much," Rita said.

"I am proud to say that I have assisted over 600 people in becoming registered dental hygienists, which includes most of the faculty that graduated during my tenure in the department."  

What are some of your favorite memories?

I helped coordinate over 20 Children's Dental Days and was able to touch the lives of so many. These events brought hundreds of elementary children to the college for a much-needed dental check-up. These events were group efforts that involved many in the college to make the day successful. I have always appreciated the willingness of everyone to volunteer and thank everyone for helping to make these special days happen. For me, one of the most heart-warming moments was the "Dental Day Stowaway" from Lexington. Though the child was not registered to participate that year, he had enjoyed his Dental Day visit to the college the previous year so much that he wanted to come again!

What are some of the most significant changes you’ve seen at the college?

Many changes have taken place throughout the years – from the renovation of the reception area, major restorations of the clinic office areas, the radiology upgrade, moving University Dental Associates (UDA) into the space where the dental hygiene clinic used to be, the laboratory upgrade, updating classrooms and technology, and the addition of the Cruzan Research addition providing the college with a desperately needed lecture hall. Do you recall the blue and yellow benches?

How will you be enjoying retirement?

I look forward to less stressful days spending time with my grandchildren, Savanah, Dustin and Cora, travelling on a weekend getaway to gamble and relax, and finally getting the "round to-its" completed at home.

A parting message for my colleagues:

Dear Coworkers and Friends – Please take care. Be well and safe. I wish you all the best as you continue to work hard to create the finest dental hygienists and dentists in the country. You are the best and I will miss you very much.